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Scion xB

In 2003, Toyota introduced its Scion division for the U.S. market. Scion was created to meet the very specific needs of the American public, as well as Toyota’s sales needs within the market. In addition to offering high quality vehicles, the Scion approach to sales and customer service quickly gave the company a name and reputation to build on.

The Scion division is built on the promise to offer well-made cars as well as to provide a new type of customer service. Toyota made the wise decision to let customer feedback dictate how the Scion dealerships are run. Car buyers will find Scion’s Pure Price policy to be useful and easy to work around. This policy indicates that the price marked on the vehicle is the overall price, including insurance and finance products, accessories, and the car itself. This approach appeals to the younger, busier generation very well.

Among its other models, Scion offers the xB series for its American clientele.

About the Scion xB

Like all of the products offered by Scion, the xB is designed to attract the attention of the younger generations of Americans. The idea behind this attractive wagon is convenience, good looks, and affordability. The xB is well known for its distinctive body, with both generations of this wagon featuring an incredibly interesting style. The box-like design brings to mind delivery van or truck styling with plenty of class and sleek lines and color options to make it unforgettable.

The Scion xB wagon is also well known for its dealer add-on options. Like all of Scion's products, the extras are one of the biggest draws for these cars. The xB is only available in one trim level, but clients are given the flexibility to customize their xB with a choice of over 40 options. Larger, better made tires and wheels, an upgraded sound system, and body kits are available for the xB. Potential buyers are also encouraged to consider the performance modifications as well. It is important to note the modifications are mild and not likely to make tremendous differences in the car’s relatively good performance ranking.

Scion xB Features

Scion chose to release the xB wagon for the 2012 model year. This year’s version has many of the traits from previous models, but did receive some updates.

Under the hood, the 2012 Scion xB offers a 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder engine paired with a standard five-speed manual transmission. The motor provides a respectable 158 hp and 162 lb-ft of torque. Keeping with the tradition of allowing for plenty of options, the wagon can also be ordered with the optional four-speed automatic transmission.

Though certainly not a large wagon by any means, the xB manages to keep things spacious and roomy inside. Three passengers plus the driver should fit comfortably in the cabin. Since these cars are designed with the younger generation in mind, the control panel and audio features reflect that. For older users, or those with less gadget experience, the stereo face can be a challenge. Some test drivers found the layout of the primary controls to be awkward, but the climate control features are easy to see and adjust to comfort.

Scion xB Evolution

The Scion xB was made in two generations. The first generation was produced from the 2004 to the 2007 model years. These cars were smaller and a bit less powerful than the current generation, though the wagon did well with buyers and industry experts. Originally, the first generation was only available to the California market; however, in later years, the company sold it in other states as well. The one thing that set the xB apart from its competitors was its affordable price.

The first generation Scion xB was relatively well equipped under the hood as well. Scion chose to offer a 1.5-liter inline four-cylinder engine in every first generation wagon. This motor was linked with a five-speed manual transmission, though the four-speed automatic was available as optional. Most industry experts suggest sticking with the five-speed if possible when buying used. The four-speed transmission is reported to be a little sluggish during acceleration.

The second generation of the xB wagon offers the same benefits of the first generation with a larger body style and more interior room. The uniquely-designed exterior is a huge plus for the style conscious younger generation.

Select a Scion xB Year

The xB soldiers on with minimal changes for 2012: standard Bluetooth phone and streaming audio along with the new base and premium audio systems. The second-generation xB debuted in 2008 and received minor updates last year with revisions to the interior and exterior.

2010 Scion xBs receive two new audio systems. The base stereo becomes a 160-watt, six-speaker Pioneer unit with satellite radio support and a USB input. The optional Alpine unit keeps the six speakers and 160-watt amp, but receives a 4.3-inch touch screen, HD radio support, and multiple RCA outputs. Additionally, Sizzling Crimson Mica paint is added in place of Blackberry Crush Metallic.